For MJ Sings, the stage on Sunday was not just about reminding Bulawayo why he earned the title ‘Prince of Soul’. It was also an opportunity to show that his musical ambitions extend beyond the microphone.

The MJ Sings Live Experience, held at Kings Kraal in Bradfield on 1 November, brought together soulful performances, hip-hop, pop and Afro-house in an afternoon that gradually developed into a lively celebration of local music.

One of the evening’s most interesting moments came when the singer stepped away from his familiar role as a vocalist and took control of the DJ decks. It was a different side of MJ Sings, one that many of his followers may not have experienced in that setting.
Having been developing his DJ skills at Nizhe De Soul (NDS) Academy, the musician used the occasion to introduce audiences to his growing interest in Afro-house.

The set offered a glimpse into an artiste who is comfortable exploring different musical spaces rather than remaining confined to one sound.
His performance drew inspiration from the musical direction associated with South African entertainers such as Zakes Bantwini and Kitchen Mess, who have helped popularise the combination of live performance and electronic music.

However, the evening did not abandon the soulful sound that has become central to his identity.
MJ Sings took audiences through his catalogue, including songs from his recently released EP, Isoka.

The crowd’s participation became part of the performance, with fans singing along to familiar records. Where some struggled with the lyrics, he took time to teach them, creating a connection that went beyond the usual exchange between an artiste and an audience.

The experience also gave room to some of Bulawayo’s other musical voices.
Hip-hop artiste Boy Nino joined him on stage for their collaboration, Temper, bringing a different energy to the programme. Pop songstress Bhekiwe also shared the stage with MJ Sings, performing Away, their collaboration featured on the Isoka EP.